Sometimes the best way to give a lift to those in need is to give them their own wheels. And with help from AkzoNobel and its collision repair centre partners across North America, hundreds of refurbished cars are being donated for just that purpose.
Since 1999, collision repair centres across North America who partner with AkzoNobel have been sharing the gift of transportation with deserving families and members of their local communities. In keeping with that proud tradition, the AkzoNobel Acoat selected International Benevolence Program will be held at collision repair centres across the U.S. and Canada starting the week of December 17th. To date, Acoat selected members have refurbished and donated approximately 340 cars.
The Benevolence Program is a community service endeavour sponsored by AkzoNobel and conducted by collision repair centres that are members of the Sikkens Acoat selected program. Its mission is to generate goodwill while improving and promoting the image of the collision repair industry. Participating collision centres present refurbished cars to deserving individuals or organizations during the holiday season.
“The continued lagging economy makes this program even more needed,” notes North American Services manager Barry Rinehart. "The gift of dependable transportation that many of us take for granted can be a turning point. It enables individuals and families to get their lives moving in a more positive direction.
"We have fifteen businesses participating this year. They enable hope through using their natural skills and talents to give back. It is inspiring to see what they do.”
Each year the collision repair industry comes across cars that are “written off” by either the owner or the insurance company. Often, these are older vehicles that just need some mechanical and body work to get them road-ready and perfectly safe to drive. Employees at participating shops donate their time and labour to repair the vehicle. Once the vehicle is reconditioned, shops then work with local charitable organizations to help them identify an individual or group that is in need of a vehicle.
Other gifts, such as auto insurance, oil changes, car washes, grocery store gift cards, clothing, toys, and books are often donated by local merchants to accompany the car. In these cases, says the company in a recent release, it is truly a community effort.
The Acoat selected National Benevolence Program is sponsored by AkzoNobel Coatings Inc. and is for customers who use its Sikkens brand of automotive refinish produces. For more information, please visit the Acoat selected website at www.acoatna.com.